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Review: Camelbak Apex™ Pro Run Vest pack

Written by Fiona

October 21 2024

My guest reviewer Seth G has been testing the CamelBak Apex Pro Run Vest with solutions for hydration needs, close fit, comfortable fabric, pole quiver and built-in RECCO rescue technology.

But, is this the best trail running vest? I want to say yes, and I think it could be, but it needs a modification.

Features include:

  • RECCO® Reflector: Safety, security, and ease of mind 
  • Trekking Pole Quiver: Stowable and fully removable 
  • Water-Resistant PU-coated Zippered Pocket 
  • Removable Front Trekking Pole Attachments 
  • Fuel and Gear Storage 
  • Dual Adjustable Chest Straps 
  • Fits 2 500ml Soft Bottles
  • Specifications
  • Total Capacity: 12L (Pack volume 11l + 1l (2x 0.5l Quick Stow Flask)
  • Dimensions: 41 x 34 x 13cm
  • Chest Fit: XS: 58-81cm / S: 76-94cm / M: 91-101cm / L: 96-111cm
  • Weight: XS: 358g / S: 353g / M: 353g / L: 371g
  • Material: 85% Nylon / 15% Woven Spandex
  • Price: £144 on Amazon

Pros: What’s good about the APEX Pro?

Comfort: The fabric is comfortable. I tested this with my running shirts and shirtless as well and I didn’t have an issue. This is a big deal for using during the various seasons and with a variety of running clothing.

RECCO reflector technology: This is the first vest I have tested with this technology. While I hope to never need it, I think it is an excellent idea and imagine that more and more races will require something like this. Essentially a rescue team sends out a signal from a helicopter and this small insert passively returns the signal and enables the search teams to find you. Ski resorts and mountain rescue teams use this around the world.

Capacity: This pack can hold everything you need for an ultramarathon, or even a long day out on the trails. You have plenty of space here for your phone, keys, hydration, snacks, jacket and a headlamp. The way it keeps it tight on your body also means you don’t deal with the bouncing around as other packs.

Trekking pole quiver: The trekking pole question is a big question. Always carry? Never carry? Keep by your side? Strap to the back? Camelbak includes a quiver which folds up and stashes inside for when you don’t need it. While testing it out I could get the poles out of the quiver on my back while running, but I couldn’t get them back in without taking it off. You might be more flexible than I, but that was my experience. I still think it is a good option, you just need to practice a bit.

Hydration flasks: I like the Camelbak flasks for their larger mouths. Some people talk about leaking, but as long as you screw it on correctly, I don’t have an issue.

Extra details: There is a water-resistant pocket for keys and phone, which is nice when you are out on the trail. It has the obligatory safety whistle, stretch overflow pockets, and a key clip.

Also, there is a side zip along the back which completely opens up the large back pocket. This means you don’t have to worry about accidentally forgetting an open snack in your pack and leaving it for a couple months to grow into some indistinguishable creature as it hides away in the bottom of your pack. (Not saying it as happened to me…but I know a guy…)

Who shouldn’t consider the APEX Pro?

Make sure you size correctly. If you do, I don’t think you will face issues. However, if you have to adjust the chest straps a lot, they don’t stay. I don’t know why, but this was my one major frustration with the vest. And it is an easy fix! If the sternum straps were better, this would be my top choice for running vests.

I think the RECCO technology adds peace of mind, and the rest of the pack is easy to use, comfortable to wear, and very versatile. But it is the those little sternum straps. I ended up knotting one of them and that has solved the problem, however now I can’t easily change it as my body adapts over the course of an ultra, or multi-day race. 

If you are listening, CamelBak, please fix this one little issue.

Conclusion:

I think this is a great vest and I plan on using it regularly over the years. If CamelBak can address this minor issue of the sternum straps, they will have an exceptional product. I really love the fit, the pockets, and the RECCO technology. If you are considering this pack, give it a test and get the right size. 

  • Seth received the vest free of charge in exchange for an honest review. See his website.

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